In coordinating green ensembles, honoree Margaret Alkek Williams posed with the Health Museum's newly appointed president and CEO, Melanie Johnson, against a baby grand piano during the cocktail reception. A flurry of camera flashes signaled the arrival of honorary chairs Gina and Dr. Devinder Bhatia, along with Dominique Sachse and Nick Florescu; the foursome dashed into the Phantom Ballroom moments before the program began.

Emcee Rachel McNeill kicked off the festivities by introducing the Rev. Stacy Auld, who delivered a moving invocation. Afterward, Johnson spoke about the Health Museum's mission to use culture to encourage its audience to live their best lives. Speaker Kirkland Poston echoed her sentiments during his brief remarks; the Xavier University undergraduate was introduced to medicine - his chosen career path - during childhood visits to the museum.

A 90-second video streamed as dinner was served. The chairs presented Williams with her award, and patrons celebrated nearly $400,000 raised by hitting the dance floor to tunes provided by Infinite Groove.

Translator

To read this article in one of Houston's most-spoken languages, click on the button below.